Is there virtue in being diplomatic and finding everything fine and dandy?
There can be a fine line between having an opinion and being judgmental.
I met a number of people since I have been in the US who think that French natives have opinions on everything and they do not look at that as a positive trait.
On the topic of wines for example, I find many passable, others interesting, some great and quite a few awful ones which I would describe as unlove at first sight.
I recently tasted a California Chardonnay which was so bad I had to spit it out.
It was remarkable for its sandpaper like green wood qualities.
Enough said.
I could not serve it with a straight face and pretend I like it.
There is a difference between being diplomatic (not offending people with your opinion or rather the way you express it) and being an hypocrite.
I read recently that some financial advisers at major banks did not speak their mind on Bernie Madoff to clients so they would not offend them and keep their business.
Was it a winning strategy in the end?
It all comes down to being honest?
If you are express honest opinions, people will respect your advice and some will even ask for it?
You might alienate others but can you please everyone?
If you try to be all things to all people you might end up standing for nothing.
Snowy day musings!